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Bermans 2025: A Year of Growth, Innovation & Celebration
As 2025 draws to a close, we’re reflecting on a year defined by client outcomes, sector leadership and community impact.
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The Problem of Fraud in Invoice Finance
Experience suggests that the issue of fraud in invoice finance remains a persistent problem. Inherent in the operation of the sale of receivables is the temptation for unscrupulous or desperate directors to create ‘fresh air’ invoices, which do not represent the product of any genuine trading (or sometimes which exaggerate the extent of otherwise genuine trading), whether from the start of the facility or during times of poor trading.
Continue ReadingHopcraft V Close Brothers: Implications For The Invoice Finance Industry
At the end of this Summer, the Supreme Court delivered its anticipated judgment in the joint appeals in Hopcraft v Close Brothers Limited [2025] UKSC 33. The decision focused on motor finance, but the Court’s findings have far broader implications for all sectors in which brokerage services are available, including the invoice finance industry. The decision has come as welcome news across the UK finance world, though the story of compensation in relation to broker commission seems likely to rumble on for some time to come.
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John Dufton-Kelly
Paralegal
John joined Bermans in November 2024 and is a Paralegal in our Creditor Services team.
He mainly works on debt recovery and invoice finance and is currently undertaking the CILEX Chartered Legal Executive apprenticeship.
Outside of work, John is a EFC fan and enjoys watching and playing football.
E: john.dufton-kelly@bermans.co.uk
T: 0151 224 0557
Myers La Roche Celebrates 40-Year Milestone
Myers La Roche, a longstanding and valued partner of Bermans specialising in helping opticians to grow, acquire and sell independent practices, is celebrating its 40th anniversary.
Continue ReadingNavigating ID Verification Under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023
The Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 (the Act) introduces a new era of corporate accountability in the UK. In two of our previous articles from March 2025 and November 2023, we explored the broader reforms introduced by the Act — including the push for greater transparency and the overhaul of Companies House powers. Now, with the mandatory identity verification (IDV) regime coming into force this month – a move designed to enhance transparency, reduce fraud, and prevent misuse of UK corporate structures, it’s time to focus on what businesses must do to comply.
Major Shake-Up for Business Owners: IHT Relief Slashed from April 2026. ACT NOW
Jon Davage
What’s Changing?
Big changes to Inheritance Tax (IHT) are on the horizon—and they could significantly affect owner-managed businesses.
While farmers have dominated headlines with protests over IHT reforms, business owners may be equally impacted, yet the changes have flown under the radar.
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Laura Bridson
Trainee Solicitor
Laura joined Bermans in October 2025 and is a Trainee Solicitor in our Asset and Invoice Finance teams.
She assists in asset finance, invoice finance and corporate finance.
Laura studied Law and the University of Liverpool before completing her LPC at the University of Law.
Outside of work, Laura enjoys travelling, as well as F1, tennis, and is also a rugby union enthusiast.
E: laura.bridson@bermans.co.uk
T: 0161 827 4617
Bermans Celebrates Multiple Rankings in The Legal 500
We’re thrilled to announce that Bermans has been ranked in six practice areas in the latest edition of The Legal 500 (5 of these as a ‘Leading Firm!) – a testament to the outstanding work and dedication of our team.
The Lifecycle of Debt Recovery: What Businesses Need to Know
Jonathan Berkson
When a customer or client fails to pay, it can disrupt cash flow and create unnecessary stress for your business. At Bermans, our Creditor Services team specialises in guiding businesses through the debt recovery process efficiently and professionally. Here’s a clear breakdown of the debt recovery lifecycle—and how we help you navigate each stage.
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